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Dog-Friendly Adventures in Chattanooga

Wednesday, June 26, 2019 3:00 PM

Dog lovers have plenty of reasons to love Chattanooga. Dogs (on a leash) are allowed in most parks in Chattanooga, and many of the city’s best attractions permit dogs to join in. Most importantly, Chattanooga is surrounded by nearby trails that are perfect for your dog. For a fun-filled weekend getaway, it definitely pays to bring your four-legged friend to the Scenic City.

DOG PARKSChattanooga is home to several off-leash parks for dogs to enjoy. Chattanooga Chew Chew Canine Park is a fenced in park with separate sections for small and large dogs with lots of green space, benches, fire hydrants, water fountains, waste removal, and agility equipment. It’s located just off of the Riverwalk near downtown Chattanooga adjacent to the First Tennessee Pavilion. Greenway Farm is an expansive area for people and dogs to explore surrounded by a large fence with separate sections for small and large dogs, plus lots of shade trees, doggie water fountains, and benches. Greenway Farm is a bit off of the beaten path but well worth the drive.

DOG-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONSYou can still visit some of the major tourist attractions with your dog. Rock City welcomes dogs on a leash to join in for a mountain adventure on the woodland trails and inside the gardens. Ruby Falls does not allow pets inside the cavern, but free individual kennels (unsupervised) are provided on site. Chattanooga Ghost Tours welcome well-behaved, dogs on a leash with tours starting nightly on the downtown side of the Walnut Street Bridge.

A simple walk across Walnut Street Bridge with your dog is a must-do while you’re in town. The bridge was built in 1891 and is one of the world's longest pedestrian bridges that connects downtown Chattanooga to the North Shore. It's a popular and favorite attraction for humans and dogs alike. Make sure to stop by the Ice Cream Show on the south side of the bridge for a special dog treat made from frozen vanilla, peanut butter and bananas. Your dog will love it.

DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTSThere are many local restaurants that have outdoor seating and will allow you to bring your dog as long as you have them on a leash. Some of the more popular spots include the Hair of the Dog Pub, which features excellent back porch seating that includes sunshades and ceiling fans to stay cool in the summer. Universal Joint Bar & Restaurant, which is located in a former filling station, features a wide range of sandwiches, burgers, and other southern favorites. The Blue Plate is a throwback to an old-school American diner, and it features a patio overlooking a large grass area and the Tennessee River. Aretha Frankensteins on the north shore is known for its great brunch on the weekends, but it’s open from 7 a.m. to midnight, so you can stop by for any meal after a exploring the outdoors. For a complete listing of dog-friendly hotels, local attractions, and restaurants, visit here.